Preparing Pharmacy Technician Students for the Certification Exam

Preparing Pharmacy Technician Students for the Certification Exam. Margaret Aneisha Hill, 2025: Strategic Research Project, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Keywords: career and technical education, certification board, enrollment, marketing, pharmacy technician, professional development, registered pharmacy technician This strategic research project was designed to enhance the career and technical education of pharmacy technician students by addressing the consistently low passing rates on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam. The project identified deficiencies in educational preparation and training as the primary problem, with the goal of increasing enrollment and improving certification success rates. The preferred solution involved implementing blended certification review courses that combine online learning with face-to-face instruction. The action plan included conducting a needs assessment, developing blended learning materials, training and supporting instructors, implementing and pilot testing the curriculum, and continuous evaluation and improvement. By providing structured and focused preparation, the blended review courses aim to enhance students' understanding and retention of key concepts, ultimately leading to better exam performance and professional readiness. This approach not only addresses the immediate problem of low pass rates but also contributes to the overall quality and effectiveness of the pharmacy technician program. To ensure the success of the blended certification review courses, several recommendations were proposed. Incorporating micro-learning modules and interactive sessions can significantly improve learning outcomes and student satisfaction. Continuous evaluation and curriculum updates based on regular assessments and surveys will ensure the program remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the pharmacy technician profession. Establishing partnerships with professional organizations and certification bodies will align the curriculum with current certification requirements and provide students with professional development opportunities. These recommendations support the long-term success and sustainability of the program. Ultimately, this approach enhances professional development, strengthens marketing efforts, and improves the reputation of the registered pharmacy technician career path.